An individualized approach to severe elbow burn contractures

Abstract

Contracture of the antecubital fossa is a common occurrence following thermal burn injury to the upper extremity. Scarring of the superficial tissues can be treated with a variety of surgical methods to provide release and coverage. However, complex scarring of the elbow, which involves the deeper structures, requires a patient-specific technique for which each scarred, shortened, or contracted component is purposefully addressed during the operation. In addition, severe elbow contractures may be complicated by other conditions, such as peripheral neuropathy and heterotopic ossification. This article will discuss the evaluation of the patient with a severe elbow burn contracture and emphasize the importance of an individualized and comprehensive surgical approach.

Clinical question/level of evidence: Therapeutic, V.